Second Court of Appeals
Justice Place 2
William A. Hughes Jr. (1976 to 1984)
William Augustus Hughes Jr. was born on June 29, 1920 in Decatur, Texas. He graduated from Decatur Baptist College and the University of North Texas. He served in the Navy during World War II, and he earned the Bronze Star award. He and his wife moved to Waco, Texas after his role as a Lieutenant in the U.S. Navy, and he earned his law degree from Baylor University in 1948.
Justice Hughes served as Decatur City Attorney and Wise County Attorney. He then was appointed judge to the 43rd District Court. Hughes then was elected judge of the 235th District Court which covered three counties. He was appointed to the Second Court of Appeals and served from December 8, 1976 to December 31, 1984. Justice Hughes continued to hear cases while on Senior status, up until his death. He passed away on January 6, 1989 in Decatur, Texas. He is buried in Oaklawn Cemetery.